Barbara Lee was sworn in as Oakland's mayor, marking a significant moment that she connected to her family history and legacy. Lee cited her grandfather's connection to Juneteenth and her father's experiences as a Black World War II soldier denied housing. At 78, she enters a challenging political landscape focused on unity within the city. Leeâs multicultural background and commitment to diversity align with her mayoral campaign, which earned support from over 50% of voters, promising a focus on community and overcoming financial struggles.
"The Bible she had placed her hand on during the Oakland City Hall ceremony...had belonged to her grandfather who was born just two years after Juneteenth, 1865."
"I think about Oakland and I think about its beautiful diversity, Lee said, hewing once again toward a message of unity that powered her mayoral campaign."
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